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Google's 4K video format to hit TVs, mobile devices, PCs | PCWorld: "Starting in 2014, you’ll see products from major mobile, PC and TV partners that are using a new, more efficient video format called VP9 that gives you HD quality at half the bandwidth,” said Francisco Varela, global director of platform partnerships at Google, in an email. With the 4K format, videos will be shown at a resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels. The VP9 format will allow device makers to stream 4K video from online video services with less bandwidth and buffering. A number of TV makers have already introduced large-screen TVs that can play back 4K content. Top TV makers Sony, Toshiba, Samsung, Panasonic, Philips, LG and Sharp will support the VP9 video codec....The VP9 is competing for adoption as a 4K video standard with H.265, also called HEVC (High Efficiency Video Coding), which is bring promoted by the International Telecommunications Union..."

Netflix tests cheaper subscription as Amazon looms: "Netflix is testing a cheaper subscription for new customers as the online video company prepares for what likely will be another competitive onslaught from Amazon in 2014.
Netflix, the biggest video-streaming service, is offering a plan for $6.99 a month that lets people watch on only one screen at a time. The company's basic streaming service currently costs $7.99 a month and lets customers watch on two screens at the same time...."

Chromecast in 2014: an open SDK, big international plans and maybe even new devices — Tech News and Analysis: "Google landed a bit of a coup with Chromecast this year, launching a device that no one saw coming but that has proven to be very popular. Next year, the company plans to take Chromecast even further by bringing it to a number of international markets, opening up the SDK to make hundreds (if not thousands) of apps Chromecast-compatible, and partnering with consumer electronics companies to bring cast functionality to other devices."

Apple's next big bet: A TV box that monetizes the living room? | ZDNet: "Apple TV may hold a tiny fraction of overall quarterly sales, but adding an app store directly in a user's living room could mean a significant profit boost for the iPhone and iPad maker."\
Maybe, maybe not, depends on how dominant Chromecast has become by the time Apple's box launches.

Popular streaming channels:Netflix: The king of movie and TV show streaming. $7.99/mo.
YouTube: User-submitted videos and some original programming. Free.
Hulu Plus: TV shows days after they air and some movies. $7.99/mo.
Amazon Prime: A strong Netflix competitor with other Amazon benefits. $79/year.
Crackle: Movies and TV mostly from Sony's library. Free.
Vudu: Movie rental site owned by Walmart. Fees per movie